Despite Recent Shootings, Overall U.S. Firearm Death Rate is Decreasing

Recent mass shootings in Colorado, New York, and other states have left the nation reeling. But despite these high-profile events, the overall number of firearm-related deaths in the U.S. has decreased in recent years, according to a study by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

The Complex Nature of Marijuana Laws in California

California's marijuana laws are extremely complicated and can be challenging to understand. Back in 1996, Proposition 215 was the first statewide medical marijuana initiative that passed in the United States. Since then, individuals with a medical condition were authorized in California to use marijuana for medical purposes provided they have doctor's prescription. This law, however, is no guarantee that possessing and using marijuana – even for medical reasons -- will not result in drug charges. In fact, under federal law, marijuana use is still illegal.

Always Speak to a Lawyer First

A story reported by the Orlando Sentinel on Friday demonstrates how much a case can be changed by the actions of a lawyer. It also illustrates how important many of the procedures of the law are, and how much the trial can change from one day to the next.

Feds Push for Tougher State Drunk Driving Laws in Maryland, Other States

Virginia recently passed a tough new drunk driving law requiring those who receive their first-ever drunk driving conviction to have an ignition interlock device installed on their vehicles. Now, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is encouraging other states and the District of Columbia to adopt similar measures.

“Distracted Walking” an Increasing Cause of Pedestrian Injuries

Distracted driving is a well-known source of serious injuries and death, claiming about 5,000 lives nationwide each year according to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, “distracted walking” caused by using a cell phone or texting while traveling on foot is also starting to be a factor in car, pedestrian, and other accidents, according to the NHTSA.

Obtaining SSI Benefits for Children with Disabilities

For children living with disabilities, the costs of ongoing medical care and treatment needed for the child can be costly. As such, it is vital for the parents, caregivers, and representatives of a child with a disability to know that financial assistance that can aid in the child’s care may be available in the form of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments. A child must be under the age of 18 to qualify for this financial support as well as meet the definition of disability for children as defined by the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). In addition, the income and resources of the child must fall within the eligibility limits.

Usher’s Stepson Considered Brain Dead after Jet Ski Accident

Usher’s Stepson Considered Brain Dead after Jet Ski Accident: Head Injury Lawyers Emphasize Need for Increased Safety Awareness

There is no easy way to cope with a loved one suffering a permanent and debilitating traumatic brain injury (TBI). Unfortunately, R&B singer Usher and his family have to do just that. According to various news outlets, Usher’s 11-year-old stepson has been diagnosed as brain dead by doctors after he was struck in the head while riding an inner tube on Lake Lanier in Georgia. It has been reported that a family friend was driving a watercraft that struck Usher’s stepson and a 15-year-old girl who was also riding on the inner tube. The young girl suffered a deep cut to her head and a broken arm. An investigation is underway into more details surrounding the tragic incident.